Why Franchises Should Have A Registered Trademark
People usually mix up the concept of copyright and trademark, let’s build a clear understanding of what trademarks actually are. Trademark would include the brand name, its logo, tagline, slogan, and design. A trademark helps your business to be identified among its competitors, it is the mark that makes you different. Businesses who’s trademarks are under the process of registration use the symbol TM and registered trademarks use symbol ®.
Trademarks can be considered as marks which help customers remember the brand and its offerings. This is why businesses spend thousands of pounds on creating a distinctive and creative trade mark that appeals to viewers and builds a brand image.
Why Get Your Franchise’s Trademark Registered?
If you are expanding your business through franchising, you need to make sure that you pass down the trade marks along. You need to mention it in the agreement that the franchisee needs to follow the trademarks provided. But the only way you can protect your trademark is by getting it registered. If you haven’t registered your trademark then you can do it today by applying in through the Intellectual Property Office UK. Although the registration of a trademark is not required by law, it is still recommended in order to safeguard your business.
For instance, a business is operating under your name and is not under any other franchise’s name, then any illegal operations they conduct will directly affect your reputation because the general public will associate the trademark with your brand and consider you as the one conducting illegal operations. On the contrary, some businesses can take advantage of the goodwill of your business that you have built along these years. They earn profits by operating under your name and taking advantage of the goodwill of your franchise UK.
File Lawsuit Against On The Grounds Of Plagiarism
In case any business uses your trademark and tries to operate under your name, then you can file a lawsuit against them if you have registered your trademark with the Intellectual Property Office UK. If you haven’t registered your trademark, then you may file a lawsuit against them on the basis of plagiarism.
Remember to protect your rights. Get in touch with the Quality Franchise Association for more information on how to become a franchisee and how you can get your trademark registered.
